Hasib Sabbagh : a legacy of understanding

This biographical video examines the legacy of Hasib Sabbagh, the prominent Palestinian businessman and philanthropist whose efforts to promote cross-cultural dialogue led to the creation of Georgetown's Center for Muslim-Christian Understanding. Born to an Arab-Christian family, Sabbagh grew up in Safed, Palestine, before attending the American University in Beirut. In 1952 Sabbagh and his brother-in-law founded Consolidated Contractors Co., one of the largest building companies in the Middle East. The company thrived, and in the years that followed Sabbagh devoted his efforts and resources to building respect amongst religions and peoples. Through his dedication to education and cultural understanding, Sabbagh hoped to help build a just and lasting peace in the Middle East. In 1993, Sabbagh partnered with Fr. Leo J. O'Donovan, President of Georgetown University, and Peter Krogh, Dean of Georgetown's School of Foreign Service, to create the Center for Muslim-Christian Understanding. To this day, the Center remains a bridge of understanding between the Muslim world and the West, and serves a lasting symbol of Sabbagh's devotion to educating future generations.